Watching the expressions that come across the faces of boys as they sit in awe at the sight of model trains is a very rewarding experience.
Toy model trains are a very powerful experience to many boys and men of all ages.
It is very difficult to place our fingers on exactly what it is that makes model trains so appealing to us or to understand where these feelings come from.
Perhaps the power comes from the fact that we realize that we are in control of a very powerful machine.
The question is puzzling as to why we continue to be enthralled with this hobby, even as we grow into adulthood.
It is possible that it is because we like to be in control of a machine, even though it is a fraction of the original size.
Maybe we have memories of the trains running out the window of the car on family vacations, or the sound of a model train in your living room around the Christmas tree.
What ever your reason for enjoying the hobby of model train railroading, one thing is certain - it is no longer a toy but has somehow transitioned into something much more profound then that.
It is now a machine, perfect for the boy inside all of us.
When most people think of toy trains, they picture the small plastic variety that are popular around the toy stores and big chain stores.
These are generally not very good quality and are made from plastic, not steel.
But they do offer a wonderful introduction to young boys to the wonderful hobby of model train railroading.
As young boys grow into men, so to do their toys.
They eventually transition into locomotives and are made to last for generations.
They are made of a much higher quality and construction, with many features and functionality that are not available on toys.
They are built to have solid contact with the track and get the best electrical current possible to insure the smoothest track.
They give a very real life experience and have a stronger engine, which means greater pulling capacity.
They are heavier and allow for the most real life experience for all those involved.
There are many different types of toy model trains, just as there are many types of real life trains.
The most common type of model train is the electric variety.
But, many people do not realize that there are also those of the steam engine type available for purchase.
There is almost nothing better then the smell and sight of real steam surrounding the landscape and scenery.
Many young boys to grow up and be a real life train conductor, but only a few are able to follow that dream.
With certainty, most conductors today simply look at what they do as a job rather then the dream of a little boy.
We can still have the experience of controlling a train through the wonderful hobby of model train railroading.